TMC Symbol Row Intensifies: SC Refers to Shiv Sena Case, Asks EC for Early Verdict

The Supreme Court has asked the Election Commission to set a timeline for resolving the TMC name and symbol dispute between rival factions. The poll panel has been directed to update the court on the expected decision date after Mamata Banerjee’s plea.

Post Published By: Aditya Wadhawan

Updated : 24 September 2026, 1:28 PM IST

Supreme Court Seeks Timeline From EC Over TMC Name and Symbol Dispute Between Rival Factions (Images: X)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Election Commission of India (ECI) to set a timeline for deciding the ongoing dispute over the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) name and election symbol between two rival factions.  The top court, while hearing a plea filed by former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, directed the poll panel to inform it by Monday about the expected timeline for delivering a final decision on the party’s identity dispute.

The matter has drawn attention as both factions continue their claim over the TMC name, organisational control and the iconic party symbol.

Supreme Court Refers to Shiv Sena Symbol Dispute

During the hearing, the Supreme Court referred to the earlier Shiv Sena faction dispute and emphasised that such party identity matters should be resolved quickly. The court’s direction comes amid the EC’s ongoing proceedings to determine which faction will be recognised as the official claimant of the party name and symbol. Both groups have presented their documents and arguments before the poll body as part of the process.

EC Freezes Original TMC Name and ‘Flowers and Grass’ Symbol

Earlier EC had frozen the original All India Trinamool Congress name and its “flowers and grass” symbol after acknowledging a dispute between the rival factions. Until a final decision is reached, neither group can use the original party name or symbol.

For the upcoming bypolls, EC has issued temporary names and symbols to both sides.

Rival TMC Factions Get Temporary Names and Symbols

As an interim arrangement, Mamata Banerjee’s faction was allotted the name “Mamata All India Trinamool Congress” along with the “football player” symbol. The rival faction received the name “Democratic Trinamool Congress” and the “envelope” symbol. The temporary allocation will remain applicable for candidates contesting upcoming elections until the Election Commission reaches a final conclusion.

TMC Control Battle Moves Through Legal and Electoral Channels

The dispute began after rival groups claimed control over the party organisation, including its name, election symbol, office-bearers and assets. EC has been examining submissions from both sides regarding organisational strength and legal claims before taking a final decision.

The Supreme Court’s latest direction has now placed focus on the timeline within which the poll panel will conclude the proceedings.